SPATIAL DISPARITIES IN THE EUROPEAN UNION: A MACROSCOPIC REVIEW

Serafeim POLYZOS

Professor, Department of Planning and Regional Development, University of Thessaly, Volos, Greece

spolyzos@uth.gr

Dimitrios TSIOTAS

Assistant Professor, Department of Regional and Economic Development, School of Applied Economics and Social Sciences, Agricultural University of Athens, Amfissa (Phocis), Greece

tsiotas@aua.gr

(Corresponding Author)

Abstract

The European Union (EU) is a unique and challenging project aimed at integrating countries with diverse languages, cultures, and histories. While economic cohesion is a key objective, reducing inequalities between Member States and ensuring balanced development for all citizens remains a significant challenge. Despite the progress made, Europe continues to face considerable geographical and economic disparities, impacting living standards, productive capacity, and technological advancement. Analyzing these inequalities, their determinants, and their mitigating policies is crucial for understanding the EU’s challenges. The allocation of EU financial resources and strategic initiatives, such as the Structural Funds, strive to reduce disparities and promote social cohesion, while also tackling emerging issues such as migration and reliance on public expenditure. This article reviews the root causes of inequalities in Europe, the policies designed to mitigate them, and the future obstacles in achieving a more united and socially just European Union.

Keywords: spatial inequalities, European Union’s enlargements, economic indicators, European growth, cohesion.

JEL classification: O18, R11, I38, D63, F15

pp. 13-36

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MAPPING THE PSYCHOLOGICAL LANDSCAPE OF SOCIAL PREFERENCES AND ATTITUDES TOWARDS VOLUNTARY INSURANCE PRODUCTS IN THE WESTERN BALKAN REGION

Ardita TODRI

Associate Professor, University of Elbasan

ardita.todri@uniel.edu.al

Imelda SEJDINI

Associate Professor, University of Elbasan

imelda.sejdini@uniel.edu.al

Petraq PAPAJORGJI

Professor, Proinfinit Consulting Tirana

petraq@gmail.com

Christos Ap. LADIAS

Professor, Regional Science Inquiry Journal, Greece

Ladias@rsijournal.eu

Abstract

This study investigates the factors affecting demand for voluntary life and non-life insurance in the Western Balkan region, focusing on age and gender preferences. Using the Mind Genomics technology in an online experiment, 2,448 participants from Albania, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Serbia, and Kosovo provided insights. The research identified four meaningful categories of interest. The most preferred insurance products across all demographics were those for livestock, crops, agricultural tools, machinery, and motor vehicle liability. Additionally, pension plans were noted as promising for retirement income planning. The study suggests that financial institutions should tailor their awareness strategies to these preferences.

Keywords: age, gender, mind genomics, preferential voluntary insurance products, Western Balkan region

JEL classification: C3, G22, G52

 pp. 131-142

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THE IMPLEMENTATION OF SOCIAL PROTECTION POLICIES AT LOCAL LEVEL ACCORDING TO INCLUSIVE AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

Anastasios SEPETIS

Assistant Professor, Sustainable Development Policies and Finances and Social Protection,  Department of Business Administration, University of West Attica (http://www.ba.uniwa.gr/), Member of the Social Administration Laboratory of the University of West Attica (https://sarl.uniwa.gr/)

tsepet@uniwa.gr

Abstract

The term inclusive and  sustainable development first appeared in the 21st century and has been accepted in academic texts and political institutions. Some scientific and institutional bodies argue that sustainable development policies at regional and local level should identify new approaches to social protection policies at local level in the context of inclusive and sustainable development. The extensive literature review of the study found that regional and local communities clearly have an important role to play in developing new policies and applied operational strategies of social protection at local level according to inclusive and sustainable development . This study also presents policies, defines the concept, proposes qualitative metrics, analyzes international and European social protection policies at local level in the context of inclusive and sustainable development. It concludes that regions, cities, local social stakeholders, must harmonise the basic principles of social protection policies and take an active role in fulfilling the regional/local objectives of Inclusive and Sustainable Development.

Keywords: Social Protection, Inclusive Development, Inclusive Growth, Sustainable Development, Sustainable Regions, Sustainable Cities.

JEL classification: R10, Q01, Q50, G10, G30, H10, H30, H70

 pp. 111-130

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